Jumping the gun: Firearms and the Mental Health of Australians

The aims of this study were to survey mental health related correlates of firearms ownership & availability in Australia, & to assess possible causal relationships between civilian gun deaths, gun availability, & mental disorders. Findings indicated that 85% of firearm deaths are triggered by distress as opposed to crime. Firearm suicide rates, although tapering off in recent years, continue to rise among certain groups. Beyond reasonable doubt, a causal relationship exists between gun ownership & firearm suicides & homicides. Legislation may be useful in reducing firearm & possibly overall suicide rates. Public health measures include improved surveillance regarding firearm events, advocacy for appropriate firearm legislation, & better education & communication about firearms. (106 refs.)